There's been no end of debate about whether or not Breaking Bad glorifies drug use, but now one American official is claiming that the show has actually helped to reduce the number of people using substances like Crystal Meth in the USA.
Harris Stratyner is co-chair of the Medical/Scientific subcommittee of the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Addiction (that's some mouthful) and he's been telling RadioTimes.com that he believes the show has had a very positive impact on society.
"According to the United States government, there are over 15 million people over the age of 12 that have used methamphetamine at least once, and over 500,000 'committed' users" he explained. "Peak use may actually be down compared with use between 2002 and 2006, when statistics offered were closer to 700,000 consistent users."
Stratyner says that the reduction is due in part to the Drug Enforcement Administration's hard work: They're really been pushing the boat out when it comes to shutting down illegal Crystal Meth manufacturers in recent years. However, he believes that the popularity of the show in itself may have inspired their efforts.
Whether there's any truth to his claims remains to be seen, but it's yet another ringing endorsement for Vince Gilligan's creation.
